Serum concentrations of intact type IV collagen in diabetics

Abstract We developed a sandwich enzyme immunoassay for intact type IV collagen (IV-C) using two monoclonal antibodies as a marker of basement membrane metabolism, and examined the relationship between serum IV-C and diabetic complications. Serum IV-C was measured in 186 diabetics with or without clinical signs of retinopathy, neuropathy, and/or nephropathy, and 328 healthy subjects. Serum IV-C was significantly ( P 2 -microglobulin. Serum IV-C level seems to be a useful marker for assessment of the activity or progression of diabetic microangiopathy, and for evaluation of therapeutic effects.